Environment and Conservation
October 1, 2015

Engaging Women in Outdoor Activities

Becoming an Outdoors Woman Workshop Provides Learning Opportunity

The Department of Environment and Conservation is inviting individuals to register for the Becoming an Outdoors Woman workshop October 16-18 at the Lavrock Camp Conference Centre at Burry Heights on Salmonier Line. The program this fall will offer women in Newfoundland and Labrador the opportunity to gain valuable outdoor skills such as hunting, fishing, hiking, backpacking and nature photography.

�This is an exciting program that offers participants a unique opportunity to improve their outdoor skills through the guidance of experienced and enthusiastic instructors in a relaxed environment. This is a great opportunity to enjoy nature, meet like-minded individuals, and learn something new.�
- The Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Environment and Conservation

The program begins noon on Friday, October 16, and ends with lunch at noon on Sunday, October 18. The registration cost is $240.00 and includes all meals, accommodations, and instruction materials. Participants must be at least 18 years of age to register.

The three day outdoors workshop provides women an opportunity to learn skills that will enhance and encourage them to participate in fishing, hunting and other forms of outdoor recreation. All classes are at an introductory level for women who have little or no experience. For a list of classes offered at the workshop, please see the backgrounder below.

The Becoming an Outdoors Woman program is designed to assist women in increasing their confidence in outdoor pursuit and making them more aware of the natural environment.

For more information or to register, please visit www.gov.nl.ca/env/snp/programs/education/outdoor_woman.html, email howelld@gov.nl.ca, or call 709-229-7888.

QUICK FACTS

• The Becoming an Outdoors Woman Workshop is offering women an opportunity to participate in a three-day outdoors skills program.
• The workshop will take place October 16-18 at the Lavrock Camp Conference Centre at Burry Heights on Salmonier Line.
• The registration cost is $240.00 and includes all meals, accommodations, and instruction materials.
• Participants must be at least 18 years of age to register.

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Media contact:
Emily Timmins
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation
709-729-2575, 709-693-1292
emilytimmins@gov.nl.ca 

BACKGROUNDER
Classes offered at Becoming an Outdoors Workshop
October 16-18, 2015

Bow/Archery Basics
This class will cover the features of bows and arrows, and how to handle them accurately and safely. There will be a range set up where participants can try out archery equipment.

Nature Art
Let nature guide your inner creativity as you learn to create beautiful artwork. This is a fun class where you will learn various acrylic painting techniques which will result in a finished painting at the end of class.

Outdoor Survival
Learn how to cope in a survival situation using whatever materials are on hand. Put together a basic survival kit, make an emergency shelter and learn how to signal for help and prevent hypothermia.

Shotgun/Trapshooting
This class will include a safety and handling session, overview of shotgun types, ammunition and their use. You will learn how to judge distances, basic shooting techniques and shoot at clay targets.

Natural Food Preservation
You CAN Naturally! Preserving seasonal fruit and vegetables by preserving in jars has been an important tradition for many generations in Newfoundland and Labrador. This session will introduce you to the basics of safely making jams, pickles and a surprising variety of other delicious and inspired products. It also introduces you to the field identification of a variety of wild edibles. Yes, you can

Fly Casting
Take the mystery out of salmon fishing! In this class you will learn about the equipment and clothing required to enjoy fly fishing. You will learn casting techniques, how to join lines and when to use different types of flies.

Map and Compass/GPS (Global Positioning System)
Lost no more! Learn how to use these devices and satellites to find your way. Whether hiking, camping, hunting, fishing or biking, these are excellent tools. All equipment will be provided for you to plot a course and find your way. Participants are encouraged to bring their own compass or GPS device if they have one.

Rifle Basics
This class will include a safety and handling session and shooting with .22 calibre rifles. Learn the importance of sight picture, breathing and trigger pull in successful rifle shooting.

Salmonier Hike
Enjoy a four km hike. Learn how to prepare for a hike. You will also learn some interesting facts about the area.

Outdoor Cooking
This course will delight your taste buds. Learn how to prepare tasty gourmet dishes and totally awesome desserts while having fun outdoors.

Wildlife Habitat � Field Marks, Tracks & Signs
Have a closer look at what lurks in our backyards and woods. You will learn how to read tracks and other signs left by wildlife. Learn about Newfoundland and Labrador�s animals and their habitats and where to find these fascinating creatures.

Fly Tying
In this class you will be introduced to basic fly tying equipment and will learn some of the techniques in fly tying. Participants will tie and take home two beginner patterns.

Canoeing basics
In this introductory course, you will learn basic canoe safety, the different types and uses of canoes, and paddling strokes. Participants will take an outing to practice their skills.

Nature and Landscape Photography
Learn the basics of how to use the settings on your digital SLR camera, and learn different techniques while taking beautiful nature and landscape photography. Bring along your SLR camera and manual.

2015 10 01                             10:10 a.m.